2005 Formula 280 Bowrider

Twin MerCruiser 350 MPI Horizon 5.7L V8s | Bravo Three Drives | 522 Hours | Trailer Included

Experience the unmistakable combination of performance, luxury, and American craftsmanship with this 2005 Formula 280 Bowrider.

Powered by twin MerCruiser 350 MPI Horizon 5.7L V8 engines with approximately 522 hours, paired with Bravo Three dual-prop sterndrives, this 280 BR delivers the kind of performance, handling, and versatility that has made Formula one of the most respected names in premium recreational boating.

At 28 feet long with a generous 9’2″ beam, the 280 Bowrider offers an impressive amount of usable space without sacrificing the sporty handling and aggressive styling Formula is known for. This particular boat also features the desirable extended swim platform and includes a trailer, adding even more versatility to an already impressive package.

Whether you’re cruising Lake Erie, heading out to the islands, entertaining friends, or enjoying a day anchored at the sandbar, this Formula delivers an excellent balance of performance and comfort.

TWIN MERCRUISER V8 PERFORMANCE

One of the standout features of this 280 BR is its twin-engine power package.

• Twin MerCruiser 350 MPI Horizon 5.7L V8 engines
• Approximately 522 engine hours
• Twin MerCruiser Bravo Three sterndrives
• Dual-prop propulsion for strong acceleration and responsive handling
• Twin-engine maneuverability for easier docking
• Deep-V performance hull
• Hydraulic trim tabs

The Bravo Three dual-prop configuration provides excellent low-speed control, confident handling, and strong acceleration. Combined with the twin V8 engines, this Formula offers the performance enthusiasts appreciate while remaining comfortable and manageable for family cruising.

PREMIUM FORMULA CONSTRUCTION

Formula has long been recognized for its attention to detail, premium materials, and solid construction methods.

The 280 Bowrider features Formula’s deep-V fiberglass hull with a 21-degree transom deadrise, designed to deliver confident handling and a comfortable ride in varying water conditions.

Factory construction highlights include:

• Formula deep-V fiberglass hull
• 21-degree transom deadrise
• Pressure-treated Perma Panel structural hull matrix
• Foam-filled hull cavities
• Chemically bonded and through-bolted deck-to-hull joint
• Heavy-duty rub rail with stainless steel insert
• Premium stainless steel hardware
• Formula’s distinctive Imron exterior graphics

These construction features help distinguish the 280 BR from many conventional production bowriders, giving it the substantial feel and premium finish that Formula owners appreciate.

SPACIOUS COCKPIT & ENTERTAINMENT LAYOUT

Step aboard and you’ll immediately appreciate the thoughtful layout of the 280 Bowrider.

The cockpit is designed around comfort, entertaining, and ease of movement, with generous seating and storage throughout.

Factory layout features include:

• Spacious wraparound aft cockpit lounge
• Double-wide helm seating with flip-up bolster arrangement
• Comfortable portside companion lounge
• Deep, spacious forward bow seating
• Bow filler cushion arrangement
• Integrated cockpit refreshment center with sink
• Convenient drink holders throughout
• In-floor storage compartments
• Dedicated fender storage
• Molded fiberglass cockpit liner
• Cockpit courtesy lighting

The generous beam provides an open, comfortable feel, allowing passengers to move easily between the bow, cockpit, and swim platform.

Whether you’re entertaining a group of friends or spending the afternoon with family, the 280 BR offers an outstanding layout for enjoying time on the water.

COMFORTABLE FORWARD BOW SEATING

The forward bow area is one of the defining features of this model.

Unlike smaller bowriders, the 280 BR offers deep, comfortable bow lounges with generous legroom and supportive seating.

The bow filler cushion arrangement also allows the forward seating area to be converted into a spacious lounging area.

This makes the boat especially appealing for families and groups who want plenty of comfortable seating without moving into a larger cruiser.

ENCLOSED HEAD COMPARTMENT

One of the features that separates the Formula 280 BR from many smaller bowriders is its enclosed head compartment.

The factory design includes:

• Private enclosed head area
• Molded fiberglass interior
• Locking compartment door
• Integrated vanity with stainless steel sink
• Ventilation through an opening portlight

This additional convenience makes the 280 BR particularly well suited for extended days on the water, entertaining guests, and family outings.

EXTENDED SWIM PLATFORM & WATER ACCESS

This particular 280 BR is equipped with the desirable extended swim platform, providing additional usable space at the stern and making the boat even more enjoyable for swimming, watersports, and relaxing at anchor.

The extended platform offers a comfortable area for boarding, preparing watersports equipment, or simply sitting near the water while anchored.

Additional features include:

• Extended aft swim platform
• Concealed stainless steel swim ladder
• Stainless steel transom grab rail
• Ski tow eye
• Convenient cockpit-to-platform access

The extended platform is an especially nice feature for Lake Erie boating, whether you’re spending the afternoon at the sandbar or enjoying time with family and friends.

HELM & CAPTAIN’S CONTROLS

Formula designed the 280 Bowrider helm with the driver in mind, combining performance-inspired styling with practical functionality.

Factory helm features include:

• Sport-inspired instrument panel
• Illuminated engine instrumentation
• Tilt steering wheel
• Ritchie compass
• Digital depth sounder
• Trim tab controls
• Conveniently positioned throttle and shift controls
• Illuminated accessory switches
• Engine monitoring instrumentation

The helm provides excellent visibility and an ergonomic driving position, making the 280 BR enjoyable to operate whether cruising at comfortable speeds or taking advantage of its twin-engine performance.

TRAILER INCLUDED

A trailer is included with the sale, adding considerable convenience and versatility to this 280 Bowrider.

Having a trailer provides additional flexibility for transportation, maintenance, winter storage, and moving the boat between boating destinations.

For buyers who prefer to store their boat at home or have access to their own storage facility, the included trailer is a valuable addition to the package.

FACTORY SPECIFICATIONS

• Manufacturer: Formula
• Model: 280 Bowrider
• Year: 2005
• Length Overall: 28’0″
• Length with Extended Swim Platform: Approximately 29’6″
• Beam: 9’2″
• Approximate Twin-Engine Weight: 7,300 lbs
• Fuel Capacity: 120 gallons
• Freshwater Capacity: 20 gallons
• Draft: 36″
• Transom Deadrise: 21 degrees
• Hull Construction: Fiberglass Deep-V
• Power: Twin MerCruiser 350 MPI Horizon 5.7L V8s
• Drives: Twin Bravo Three
• Engine Hours: Approximately 522
• Trailer: Included

THE FORMULA DIFFERENCE

There are plenty of bowriders on the market, but Formula has always occupied a special place among premium performance boat manufacturers.

The 280 Bowrider offers the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and performance-oriented design Formula is known for, while providing the comfort and practicality needed for everyday boating.

Its twin MerCruiser V8 power, generous 9’2″ beam, spacious bow seating, extended swim platform, and included trailer make it an excellent option for someone looking to step into a larger, higher-quality bowrider.

If you’re searching for a boat that combines performance, luxury, and timeless styling, this 2005 Formula 280 BR deserves a closer look.